New Orleans has two practices remaining before training camp opens July 29, and the team’s two-day mandatory minicamp Tuesday and Wednesday could offer a closer look at the groups that drew the most attention during the voluntary offseason program.
Wide receiver depth has been a focus. Quarterback Tyler Shough spent significant reps throwing to tight ends during the first 11-on-11 session last week, a pattern that could reflect either schematic preference or the current state of the receiver room. The Saints added Jordyn Tyson (No. 8), Bryce Lance (No. 136) and Barion Brown (No. 190) in the draft, creating options but also difficult choices when filling the final two or three spots on the 53-man roster.
There are questions at the top of that depth chart. Tyson, expected to start opposite Chris Olave, has been limited since the second day of rookie minicamp when he did not practice; coach Kellen Moore described that as part of a maintenance plan after Tyson spent the spring rehabbing college injuries. Tyson said the long combine process made it good to get off his feet for a bit and that he trusts the coaching staff.
Olave, who missed the 2025 season finale because of a blood clot, has also been limited in OTAs and did not attend the final OTA session open to media. Moore said Olave has been held out of some drills as a precaution but noted the receiver has done significant work this offseason and should be in a good place.
Alvin Kamara’s roster status and salary remain unresolved. His surprise appearance at OTAs — his first since 2019 — did not remove uncertainty about his role. The Saints must address his $11.5 million salary this summer before his roster spot is secure; the team has roughly $6.5 million in available cap space with draft picks signed and with Kamara’s $10.5 million cap number included in that accounting. While a pay cut is not required for cap compliance, the club would likely prefer a smaller number.
This week’s minicamp represents a final opportunity to work on Kamara’s situation in person before training camp. Newcomer Travis Etienne Jr., who will earn $14 million in cash in 2026 and has a deal that averages $11.8 million annually, said he is preparing as if he will shoulder the load but would welcome another back. Moore said he expects Kamara to attend mandatory minicamp and indicated the player has been preparing the right way.
